Burma's prime minister says the country's military government is determined to implement a so-called "road map" to democracy -- but warns that pressure from abroad will only delay the process.
Burmese newspapers carried the comments by Prime Minister Khin Nyunt in their Saturday editions.
Khin Nyunt was quoted as saying the road map has been welcomed by all parts of Burmese society, and has the support of other Southeast Asian countries.
In August, Khin Nyunt announced a seven-point plan for democratic reform. The plan includes convening a national convention to draft of a new constitution, and the holding of free elections.
Western countries have expressed skepticism over the plans, citing the military government's poor human rights record.
The United States and European Union have demanded the release of pro-democracy leader Aung San Suu Kyi, who remains under house arrest in Rangoon. The United Nations and Amnesty International are also calling for the release of hundreds of political prisoners.
Information for this report is provided by AP.